by Robin Degner

Created on: February 07, 2009

The pain of separation is particularly sharp on Valentine's Day. Fortunately, these days, technology makes it easy to keep in touch and a few key strikes can send a smile, a hug and a kiss across the miles. But really, that's not enough. Especially not for Valentine's Day. My recently-deployed boyfriend isn't big on Valentine's Day, normally. Last year, he only gave me flowers because I begged. But this year, it's different. And I know he wants a Valentine's Day gift. But what to get?

Food

Let's face it, they might like the food that they're eating on base, but it's not the same. So, turn on the oven and bake some cookies, fudge, candy and other things that will survive the journey - cake isn't a good idea. The temperature in Iraq is particularly dry, and as a soldier who just returned home told me while I was trying to decide what to make, the food will dry out quickly. Whatever you make, wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil (if you can) and a sealed plastic bag or airtight container - but don't expect the container to return. Add store bought gum, candy, chips and anything else you think he (or she!) might want.

Letters

Sure, emails are easier, but a nice handwritten letter is much more personal. Write out a rough draft on lined paper and then write a final copy on nice, thick paper. This will help you write the things you want and keep it from looking like you crossed everything out. Spray on a dab of perfume - something that will remind him of you and seal it with a kiss.

Cards

Funny, sweet, romantic - send one, two or three to make him think of you and let him know you love him and are thinking about him. Even better, if you can, purchase some stationary material and make your own card. You can even make it while watching TV.

Games

While not every base is desolate, that doesn't mean the soldiers don't need something a little different to keep them occupied. Send games he likes, cards, dice, dominoes and anything that catches your eye that you think he might like.

Magazines/Books

My boyfriend hates to read, but I know that I can send him a Sports Magazine to become his hero. I even bought him a subscription. Other people might have a favorite author who just published a new book or be interested in reading something new.

Pictures

While the fuzzy screen on the computer might be okay, having a picture you can hold in your hand is even better. Whether you're taking candid shots (of yourself, the kids or everyday haunts), money shots (of yourself) or special, classy shots, it's safe to say he'll enjoy them all.

CDs

Have a music lover? Send some music. OR buy an iTunes card so he or she can pick it himself.

DVDs

Find a movie, whether a movie the two of you saw together before he left, a new movie he hasn't had the opportunity to see or a favorite movie you think he'll like and send it to him. Don't forget popcorn! (If the base doesn't have a microwave, there are pre-popped bags of popcorn.)

Voice Recorder

These are available at Wal-mart and other stores for under $30. You can record your voice on one of the sections and leave messages, letting him know you love him and miss him. If he has a favorite radio station, you can record parts of that and send that, too.

Whatever you send, make it something special that will let him know just how much you love him and miss him and indicate that you've been thinking about him. No matter how you feel about Valentine's Day, it's a day you can use to let him know that he's special.

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